Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins, T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Sucunza, F.,Zerbini, A. N.,Witt, M.J.
Research update on satellite tagging studies of the Arabian Sea humpback whales in the Sultanate of Oman Technical Report
no. 500, 2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Distribution, feeding, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, seasonal change
@techreport{,
title = {Research update on satellite tagging studies of the Arabian Sea humpback whales in the Sultanate of Oman},
author = {Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins, T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Sucunza, F.,Zerbini, A. N.,Witt, M.J.},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the Scientific Committee meeting of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {500},
pages = {23},
publisher = {IWC},
abstract = {Three surveys focusing on Arabian Sea humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) were conducted from
two field sites off the southern coast of Oman between February 2014 and December 2015. We present a
summary of boat-based survey data and satellite telemetry activities generated by these surveys. Our
findings provide insight into the spatial ecology of Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHW) and salient
threats to the population. Ninety hours of on-effort vessel-based surveys resulted in 29 sightings of ASHW
groups. Analysis of fluke and dorsal fin images indicates that these sightings involved 40 different
individuals. Tagging efforts resulted in successful deployment of nine satellite tags, six of which provided
data on dive behaviour and vertical distribution within the water column. Tagged whales that were
resighted (n = 5) during subsequent surveys exhibited signs of healing following tag rejection. Satellite
tracking data reveals whales ranging within a 1,150 km corridor along the southern coast of Oman and
northern Yemen, the first transboundary movement recorded for this population. Individuals spent an
average of 83% (SD = 17%) of their time engaged in localised or ‘area restricted search’ (ARS) that is
likely associated with foraging, breeding and resting behaviour. Tracked individuals spent much of their
time over the continental shelf with 73% of satellite-derived locations attributed to waters <200 m depth.
Gathered dive data reveal that tracked whales spent 83% of time in the top 20 m of the water column, most
frequently (39%; SD = 11%) engaged in dives with durations between 5 and 10 minutes. The average
maximum depth recorded by the tags was 199 m (SD = 95 m). Further spatial analysis indicated that 35%
of location points in the study were within the Gulf of Masirah, habitat that co-occurs with emerging
industrial activity and existing artisanal fisheries. Dive behavior in offshore waters beyond the continental
shelf also likely indicates foraging activity. The growing knowledge base for this population supports need
for on-going research and putative mitigation measures to address a wide spectrum of anthropogenic threats
for humpback whales in Oman and the wider region.},
keywords = {Distribution, feeding, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, seasonal change},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Three surveys focusing on Arabian Sea humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) were conducted from
two field sites off the southern coast of Oman between February 2014 and December 2015. We present a
summary of boat-based survey data and satellite telemetry activities generated by these surveys. Our
findings provide insight into the spatial ecology of Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHW) and salient
threats to the population. Ninety hours of on-effort vessel-based surveys resulted in 29 sightings of ASHW
groups. Analysis of fluke and dorsal fin images indicates that these sightings involved 40 different
individuals. Tagging efforts resulted in successful deployment of nine satellite tags, six of which provided
data on dive behaviour and vertical distribution within the water column. Tagged whales that were
resighted (n = 5) during subsequent surveys exhibited signs of healing following tag rejection. Satellite
tracking data reveals whales ranging within a 1,150 km corridor along the southern coast of Oman and
northern Yemen, the first transboundary movement recorded for this population. Individuals spent an
average of 83% (SD = 17%) of their time engaged in localised or ‘area restricted search’ (ARS) that is
likely associated with foraging, breeding and resting behaviour. Tracked individuals spent much of their
time over the continental shelf with 73% of satellite-derived locations attributed to waters <200 m depth.
Gathered dive data reveal that tracked whales spent 83% of time in the top 20 m of the water column, most
frequently (39%; SD = 11%) engaged in dives with durations between 5 and 10 minutes. The average
maximum depth recorded by the tags was 199 m (SD = 95 m). Further spatial analysis indicated that 35%
of location points in the study were within the Gulf of Masirah, habitat that co-occurs with emerging
industrial activity and existing artisanal fisheries. Dive behavior in offshore waters beyond the continental
shelf also likely indicates foraging activity. The growing knowledge base for this population supports need
for on-going research and putative mitigation measures to address a wide spectrum of anthropogenic threats
for humpback whales in Oman and the wider region.
two field sites off the southern coast of Oman between February 2014 and December 2015. We present a
summary of boat-based survey data and satellite telemetry activities generated by these surveys. Our
findings provide insight into the spatial ecology of Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHW) and salient
threats to the population. Ninety hours of on-effort vessel-based surveys resulted in 29 sightings of ASHW
groups. Analysis of fluke and dorsal fin images indicates that these sightings involved 40 different
individuals. Tagging efforts resulted in successful deployment of nine satellite tags, six of which provided
data on dive behaviour and vertical distribution within the water column. Tagged whales that were
resighted (n = 5) during subsequent surveys exhibited signs of healing following tag rejection. Satellite
tracking data reveals whales ranging within a 1,150 km corridor along the southern coast of Oman and
northern Yemen, the first transboundary movement recorded for this population. Individuals spent an
average of 83% (SD = 17%) of their time engaged in localised or ‘area restricted search’ (ARS) that is
likely associated with foraging, breeding and resting behaviour. Tracked individuals spent much of their
time over the continental shelf with 73% of satellite-derived locations attributed to waters <200 m depth.
Gathered dive data reveal that tracked whales spent 83% of time in the top 20 m of the water column, most
frequently (39%; SD = 11%) engaged in dives with durations between 5 and 10 minutes. The average
maximum depth recorded by the tags was 199 m (SD = 95 m). Further spatial analysis indicated that 35%
of location points in the study were within the Gulf of Masirah, habitat that co-occurs with emerging
industrial activity and existing artisanal fisheries. Dive behavior in offshore waters beyond the continental
shelf also likely indicates foraging activity. The growing knowledge base for this population supports need
for on-going research and putative mitigation measures to address a wide spectrum of anthropogenic threats
for humpback whales in Oman and the wider region.
Minton,G.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Findlay,K.P.,Ersts,P.J.,Rosenbaum,H.C.,Berggren,P.,Baldwin,R.M.
Seasonal distribution, abundance, habitat use and population identity of humpback whales in Oman Journal Article
In: Journal of Cetacean Research and Management, vol. Special Issue on Southern Hemisphere Hum, no. 415, pp. 185–198, 2011.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Distribution, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Oman, population, population characteristics, whale, whales
@article{,
title = {Seasonal distribution, abundance, habitat use and population identity of humpback whales in Oman},
author = {Minton,G.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Findlay,K.P.,Ersts,P.J.,Rosenbaum,H.C.,Berggren,P.,Baldwin,R.M.},
year = {2011},
date = {2011-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Cetacean Research and Management},
volume = {Special Issue on Southern Hemisphere Hum},
number = {415},
pages = {185–198},
abstract = {Published data on the occurrence of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Arabian Sea suggest that the region hosts a non-migratory population that adheres to a Northern Hemisphere breeding cycle. Twelve small boat surveys were conducted at three main locations off the coast of Oman between February 2000 and November 2004 to investigate the distribution and seasonal abundance of humpback whales and other cetaceans.
An even ratio of males and females were observed and sampled during surveys in the Gulf of Masirah (Gulf of Masirah) in October and November (n=38), while almost all whales sampled in Dhofar in February/March were male (n=28). Song was detected frequently in the bay surrounding the Halaniyat Islands (formerly known as the Kuria Muria Bay) in February/March, but observations of mother-calf pairs were sparse, and competitive groups were absent. Feeding was observed in both October/November and February/March, but behavioural and environmental observations indicate that the Gulf of Masirah is primarily an important feeding ground, while the Dhofar region, particularly the Halaniyat Bay, may be a breeding area. However, a lack of recent observations of both mother-calf pairs and competitive groups raises the possibility that the primary mating, calving and nursing areas are yet to be identified.
Of the 64 whales that have been identified using photographs of dorsal fins or tail flukes, six individuals have been observed on at least two surveys, four individuals on three surveys, one on four surveys and one on five separate surveys. Identified individuals were re-sighted in both the Gulf of Masirah and Dhofar at different times of the year and across survey years, indicating year-round residence off the coast of Oman.
A Chapman's modified Petersen estimator was applied to various data pairings to calculate abundance. All pairings yielded estimates of less than 100 individuals, but sample sizes are small and there are various sources of possible bias. Analysis of scarring on the caudal peduncle region of identified individuals in Oman indicates that between 30 and 40% are likely to have been involved in entanglements with fishing gear.
Comparison of the Oman photo-identification catalogue with those from Zanzibar, Antongil Bay (Madagascar) and Mayotte and the Geyser Atoll (Comoros Archipelago), yielded no photographic matches. These data are consistent with the hypothesis of a discrete population. The distribution of fluke pigmentation rankings from the Oman catalogue, which varied significantly from those of Madagascar and Mayotte, provides further evidence for this theory.},
keywords = {Distribution, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Oman, population, population characteristics, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Published data on the occurrence of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Arabian Sea suggest that the region hosts a non-migratory population that adheres to a Northern Hemisphere breeding cycle. Twelve small boat surveys were conducted at three main locations off the coast of Oman between February 2000 and November 2004 to investigate the distribution and seasonal abundance of humpback whales and other cetaceans.
An even ratio of males and females were observed and sampled during surveys in the Gulf of Masirah (Gulf of Masirah) in October and November (n=38), while almost all whales sampled in Dhofar in February/March were male (n=28). Song was detected frequently in the bay surrounding the Halaniyat Islands (formerly known as the Kuria Muria Bay) in February/March, but observations of mother-calf pairs were sparse, and competitive groups were absent. Feeding was observed in both October/November and February/March, but behavioural and environmental observations indicate that the Gulf of Masirah is primarily an important feeding ground, while the Dhofar region, particularly the Halaniyat Bay, may be a breeding area. However, a lack of recent observations of both mother-calf pairs and competitive groups raises the possibility that the primary mating, calving and nursing areas are yet to be identified.
Of the 64 whales that have been identified using photographs of dorsal fins or tail flukes, six individuals have been observed on at least two surveys, four individuals on three surveys, one on four surveys and one on five separate surveys. Identified individuals were re-sighted in both the Gulf of Masirah and Dhofar at different times of the year and across survey years, indicating year-round residence off the coast of Oman.
A Chapman's modified Petersen estimator was applied to various data pairings to calculate abundance. All pairings yielded estimates of less than 100 individuals, but sample sizes are small and there are various sources of possible bias. Analysis of scarring on the caudal peduncle region of identified individuals in Oman indicates that between 30 and 40% are likely to have been involved in entanglements with fishing gear.
Comparison of the Oman photo-identification catalogue with those from Zanzibar, Antongil Bay (Madagascar) and Mayotte and the Geyser Atoll (Comoros Archipelago), yielded no photographic matches. These data are consistent with the hypothesis of a discrete population. The distribution of fluke pigmentation rankings from the Oman catalogue, which varied significantly from those of Madagascar and Mayotte, provides further evidence for this theory.
An even ratio of males and females were observed and sampled during surveys in the Gulf of Masirah (Gulf of Masirah) in October and November (n=38), while almost all whales sampled in Dhofar in February/March were male (n=28). Song was detected frequently in the bay surrounding the Halaniyat Islands (formerly known as the Kuria Muria Bay) in February/March, but observations of mother-calf pairs were sparse, and competitive groups were absent. Feeding was observed in both October/November and February/March, but behavioural and environmental observations indicate that the Gulf of Masirah is primarily an important feeding ground, while the Dhofar region, particularly the Halaniyat Bay, may be a breeding area. However, a lack of recent observations of both mother-calf pairs and competitive groups raises the possibility that the primary mating, calving and nursing areas are yet to be identified.
Of the 64 whales that have been identified using photographs of dorsal fins or tail flukes, six individuals have been observed on at least two surveys, four individuals on three surveys, one on four surveys and one on five separate surveys. Identified individuals were re-sighted in both the Gulf of Masirah and Dhofar at different times of the year and across survey years, indicating year-round residence off the coast of Oman.
A Chapman's modified Petersen estimator was applied to various data pairings to calculate abundance. All pairings yielded estimates of less than 100 individuals, but sample sizes are small and there are various sources of possible bias. Analysis of scarring on the caudal peduncle region of identified individuals in Oman indicates that between 30 and 40% are likely to have been involved in entanglements with fishing gear.
Comparison of the Oman photo-identification catalogue with those from Zanzibar, Antongil Bay (Madagascar) and Mayotte and the Geyser Atoll (Comoros Archipelago), yielded no photographic matches. These data are consistent with the hypothesis of a discrete population. The distribution of fluke pigmentation rankings from the Oman catalogue, which varied significantly from those of Madagascar and Mayotte, provides further evidence for this theory.
Braulik,G.,Ranjbar,S.,Owfi,F.,Aminrad,T.,Dakhteh,S.M.H.,Kamrani,E.,Mohsenizadeh,F.
Marine Mammal Records from Iran Journal Article
In: Journal of Cetacean Research and Management, vol. 11, no. 334, pp. 49-63, 2010.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, bottlenose dolphin, Bryde's whale, Common dolphin, conservation, Distribution, dolphin, dugong, fin whale, Finless Porpoise, fishing gear, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, killer whale, location, mammals, management, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, mortality, mysticete, mysticetes, Oman, Porpoise, Risso's dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, Spinner dolphin, whale, whales
@article{,
title = {Marine Mammal Records from Iran},
author = {Braulik,G.,Ranjbar,S.,Owfi,F.,Aminrad,T.,Dakhteh,S.M.H.,Kamrani,E.,Mohsenizadeh,F.},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Cetacean Research and Management},
volume = {11},
number = {334},
pages = {49-63},
abstract = {A total of 114 marine mammal records of 14 species were compiled from Iranian coastalwaters of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Eighty-one were from the Persian Gulf, 23from the Gulf of Oman and 10 were of unknown location. Records of finless porpoise(Neophocaena phocaenoides) (24), Indo-pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) (22)and Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) (21) were by far the most numerousa probable reflection of their inshore distribution and local abundance. Other speciesrecorded were common dolphin (Delphinus capensis tropicalis), rough-toothed dolphin(Steno bredanensis), striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), spinner dolphin (Stenellalongirostris), Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus), false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens),sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) and dugong (Dugong dugon). Records of 24Mysticetes were compiled, 11 of which were tentatively identified as Bryde's whales(Balaenoptera edeni), three as Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus), three as Humpbackwhales (Megaptera novaeangliae) and the remainder were unidentified. The largest threat tomarine mammals in Iran is likely to be incidental capture in fishing gear. Nine finlessporpoises were recorded as bycatch and this and other coastal species may be declining dueto unsustainable mortality rates. Other threats to the marine environment are discussed andrecommended marine mammal conservation and management small projects are described.},
keywords = {abundance, bottlenose dolphin, Bryde's whale, Common dolphin, conservation, Distribution, dolphin, dugong, fin whale, Finless Porpoise, fishing gear, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, killer whale, location, mammals, management, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, mortality, mysticete, mysticetes, Oman, Porpoise, Risso's dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, Spinner dolphin, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
A total of 114 marine mammal records of 14 species were compiled from Iranian coastalwaters of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Eighty-one were from the Persian Gulf, 23from the Gulf of Oman and 10 were of unknown location. Records of finless porpoise(Neophocaena phocaenoides) (24), Indo-pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) (22)and Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) (21) were by far the most numerousa probable reflection of their inshore distribution and local abundance. Other speciesrecorded were common dolphin (Delphinus capensis tropicalis), rough-toothed dolphin(Steno bredanensis), striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), spinner dolphin (Stenellalongirostris), Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus), false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens),sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) and dugong (Dugong dugon). Records of 24Mysticetes were compiled, 11 of which were tentatively identified as Bryde's whales(Balaenoptera edeni), three as Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus), three as Humpbackwhales (Megaptera novaeangliae) and the remainder were unidentified. The largest threat tomarine mammals in Iran is likely to be incidental capture in fishing gear. Nine finlessporpoises were recorded as bycatch and this and other coastal species may be declining dueto unsustainable mortality rates. Other threats to the marine environment are discussed andrecommended marine mammal conservation and management small projects are described.
Minton,G.,Cherchio, S.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Ersts, P.J.,Findlay,K.P.,Pomilla, C.,Bennett, D.,Meyer, M.,Razafindrakoto, Y.,Kotze, D.,Oosthuizen, H.,Leslie, M.,Andrianarivelo, N.,Baldwin,R.M.,Ponnampalam, L.,Rosenbaum, H.C.
A note on the comparison of humpback whale tail fluke catalogues from the Sultanate of Oman with Madagascar and the East African Mainland Journal Article
In: Journal of Cetacean Research and Management, vol. 11, no. 408, pp. 65-68, 2010.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, megaptera novaeangliae, Mozambique, Northern Hemisphere, Oman, photo-ID, population identity, South Africa
@article{,
title = {A note on the comparison of humpback whale tail fluke catalogues from the Sultanate of Oman with Madagascar and the East African Mainland},
author = {Minton,G.,Cherchio, S.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Ersts, P.J.,Findlay,K.P.,Pomilla, C.,Bennett, D.,Meyer, M.,Razafindrakoto, Y.,Kotze, D.,Oosthuizen, H.,Leslie, M.,Andrianarivelo, N.,Baldwin,R.M.,Ponnampalam, L.,Rosenbaum, H.C.},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Cetacean Research and Management},
volume = {11},
number = {408},
pages = {65-68},
abstract = {The photo-identification catalogue of humpback whale tail flukes from Oman was compared with those from Antongil Bay, Madagascar and study
sites in South Africa and Mozambique collectively termed the ‘East African Mainland’. No matches were found, supporting other lines of evidence
that the humpback whales studied off the coast of Oman form part of a discrete Arabian Sea population, which adheres to a Northern Hemisphere
breeding cycle, and has little or no ongoing exchange with the nearest neighbouring populations in the southern Indian Ocean.While the sample size
from Oman is small, and low levels of ongoing exchange might not be detected in this type of catalogue comparison, the study nonetheless emphasises
the need to pursue research and conservation efforts in the known and suspected range of the Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale population.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, megaptera novaeangliae, Mozambique, Northern Hemisphere, Oman, photo-ID, population identity, South Africa},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The photo-identification catalogue of humpback whale tail flukes from Oman was compared with those from Antongil Bay, Madagascar and study
sites in South Africa and Mozambique collectively termed the ‘East African Mainland’. No matches were found, supporting other lines of evidence
that the humpback whales studied off the coast of Oman form part of a discrete Arabian Sea population, which adheres to a Northern Hemisphere
breeding cycle, and has little or no ongoing exchange with the nearest neighbouring populations in the southern Indian Ocean.While the sample size
from Oman is small, and low levels of ongoing exchange might not be detected in this type of catalogue comparison, the study nonetheless emphasises
the need to pursue research and conservation efforts in the known and suspected range of the Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale population.
sites in South Africa and Mozambique collectively termed the ‘East African Mainland’. No matches were found, supporting other lines of evidence
that the humpback whales studied off the coast of Oman form part of a discrete Arabian Sea population, which adheres to a Northern Hemisphere
breeding cycle, and has little or no ongoing exchange with the nearest neighbouring populations in the southern Indian Ocean.While the sample size
from Oman is small, and low levels of ongoing exchange might not be detected in this type of catalogue comparison, the study nonetheless emphasises
the need to pursue research and conservation efforts in the known and suspected range of the Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale population.
IWC
Report of the workshop on the comprehensive assessment of Southern Hemisphere humpback whales Technical Report
no. 392, 2006.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, Arabian Sea, Australia, Distribution, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Movements, Oman, population, populations, Southern Hemisphere, survey, whale, whales, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Report of the workshop on the comprehensive assessment of Southern Hemisphere humpback whales},
author = {IWC},
year = {2006},
date = {2006-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the 58th meeting of the International Whaling Commission},
volume = {SC/58/Rep5},
number = {392},
pages = {1-77},
abstract = {This report summarises all the data for SH humpback whales. Specific recommendations for Pop X (Arabian Sea/Oman) include: Given that the humpback whales of Region X represent an isolated population that has a very low estimate ofabundance, it is strongly recommended that further research be undertaken that will aid in protection of thisstock.There are whales in unsampled areas between Oman and other study areas in Africa and Western Australia. TheWorkshop recommended that studies should be conducted in these areas.It was recommended that further genetic sampling and analysis be completed to more conclusively determinethe degree of differentiation for humpback whales of Region X and the timing of its separation from otherhumpback whale populations.Distribution of whales in Region X clearly occurs throughout areas of the Arabian Sea but surveys conducted todate have been limited to the coast of Oman. The Workshop encourages more survey effort in other areas toevaluate movements and relationships with whales off the coast of Oman.Given the seasonal limitations in survey effort and an unresolved degree of movement and connectivity withother concentrations of humpback whales in the Indian Ocean, the Workshop suggests that satellite telemetrystudies be initiated.},
keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, Australia, Distribution, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Movements, Oman, population, populations, Southern Hemisphere, survey, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
This report summarises all the data for SH humpback whales. Specific recommendations for Pop X (Arabian Sea/Oman) include: Given that the humpback whales of Region X represent an isolated population that has a very low estimate ofabundance, it is strongly recommended that further research be undertaken that will aid in protection of thisstock.There are whales in unsampled areas between Oman and other study areas in Africa and Western Australia. TheWorkshop recommended that studies should be conducted in these areas.It was recommended that further genetic sampling and analysis be completed to more conclusively determinethe degree of differentiation for humpback whales of Region X and the timing of its separation from otherhumpback whale populations.Distribution of whales in Region X clearly occurs throughout areas of the Arabian Sea but surveys conducted todate have been limited to the coast of Oman. The Workshop encourages more survey effort in other areas toevaluate movements and relationships with whales off the coast of Oman.Given the seasonal limitations in survey effort and an unresolved degree of movement and connectivity withother concentrations of humpback whales in the Indian Ocean, the Workshop suggests that satellite telemetrystudies be initiated.
Minton,G.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Findlay,K.P.,Baldwin,R,Ersts,P.J.,Rosenbaum,H.C.
Seasonal distribution and population characteristics of humpback whales in Oman Technical Report
no. 413, 2006, ISBN: SC/A06/HW48.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Australia, cetacean, Distribution, habitat, habitat preference, habitat preferences, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Oman, population, population characteristics, Southern Hemisphere, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Seasonal distribution and population characteristics of humpback whales in Oman},
author = {Minton,G.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Findlay,K.P.,Baldwin,R,Ersts,P.J.,Rosenbaum,H.C.},
issn = {SC/A06/HW48},
year = {2006},
date = {2006-01-01},
journal = {Document presented to the Workshop on the Comprehensive Assessment of Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whales, Hobart, Australia, April 2006},
volume = {SC/A06/HW48},
number = {413},
pages = {1-48},
abstract = {Previously published data on the occurrence of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Arabian Sea suggest that the region hosts a non-migratory population that adheres to a Northern Hemisphere breeding cycle. Twelve small boat surveys were conducted at three main locations off the coast of Oman between February 2000 and November 2004 to investigate the distribution and seasonal abundance of humpback whales and other cetaceans. An even ratio of males and females were observed and sampled during surveys in the Gulf of Masirah in October and November (n=38), while almost all whales sampled in Dhofar February/March were male (n=28). Song was detected frequently in the Kuria Muria Bay in February/March, but observations of mother-calf pairs were sparse, and competitive groups were absent. Feeding was observed in both October/November and February/March, but behavioural and environmental observations indicate that the Gulf of Masirah is primarily an important feeding ground, while the Dhofar region, particularly the Kuria Muria Bay, appears to be a breeding area. However, a lack of recent observations of both mother-calf pairs and competitive groups raises the possibility that the primary mating, calving and nursing areas are yet to be identified. Of the 64 whales that have been identified using photographs of dorsal fins or tail flukes, six individuals have been observed on at least two surveys, four individuals on three surveys, one on four surveys and one on five separate surveys. Individually identified whales were re-sighted in both the Gulf of Masirah and Dhofar at different times of the year and across survey years, indicating year-round residence off the coast of Oman. A Chapman's modified Petersen estimator was applied to various data pairings to calculate abundance in the areas surveyed. All pairings yielded estimates of less than 100 individuals, but sample sizes were small there are various sources of possible bias. Analysis of scarring on the caudal peduncle region of individually identified whales in Oman indicate that between 30 and 40% of identified whales are likely to have been involved in entanglements with fishing gear. Comparison of the Oman photo-identification catalogue with those from Zanzibar, Antongil Bay (Madagascar) and Mayotte and the Geyser Atoll (Comoros Archipelago), yielded no photographic matches, and support the hypothesis of a discrete population as did comparison of the distribution of fluke pigmentation rankings from the Oman catalogue, which varied significantly from those of Madagascar and Mayotte. In general the data examined in this study suggest that the population or sub-population of humpback whales off the coast of Oman is resident year-round, small and potentially discrete, warranting further research and conservation efforts.},
keywords = {Australia, cetacean, Distribution, habitat, habitat preference, habitat preferences, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Oman, population, population characteristics, Southern Hemisphere, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Previously published data on the occurrence of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Arabian Sea suggest that the region hosts a non-migratory population that adheres to a Northern Hemisphere breeding cycle. Twelve small boat surveys were conducted at three main locations off the coast of Oman between February 2000 and November 2004 to investigate the distribution and seasonal abundance of humpback whales and other cetaceans. An even ratio of males and females were observed and sampled during surveys in the Gulf of Masirah in October and November (n=38), while almost all whales sampled in Dhofar February/March were male (n=28). Song was detected frequently in the Kuria Muria Bay in February/March, but observations of mother-calf pairs were sparse, and competitive groups were absent. Feeding was observed in both October/November and February/March, but behavioural and environmental observations indicate that the Gulf of Masirah is primarily an important feeding ground, while the Dhofar region, particularly the Kuria Muria Bay, appears to be a breeding area. However, a lack of recent observations of both mother-calf pairs and competitive groups raises the possibility that the primary mating, calving and nursing areas are yet to be identified. Of the 64 whales that have been identified using photographs of dorsal fins or tail flukes, six individuals have been observed on at least two surveys, four individuals on three surveys, one on four surveys and one on five separate surveys. Individually identified whales were re-sighted in both the Gulf of Masirah and Dhofar at different times of the year and across survey years, indicating year-round residence off the coast of Oman. A Chapman's modified Petersen estimator was applied to various data pairings to calculate abundance in the areas surveyed. All pairings yielded estimates of less than 100 individuals, but sample sizes were small there are various sources of possible bias. Analysis of scarring on the caudal peduncle region of individually identified whales in Oman indicate that between 30 and 40% of identified whales are likely to have been involved in entanglements with fishing gear. Comparison of the Oman photo-identification catalogue with those from Zanzibar, Antongil Bay (Madagascar) and Mayotte and the Geyser Atoll (Comoros Archipelago), yielded no photographic matches, and support the hypothesis of a discrete population as did comparison of the distribution of fluke pigmentation rankings from the Oman catalogue, which varied significantly from those of Madagascar and Mayotte. In general the data examined in this study suggest that the population or sub-population of humpback whales off the coast of Oman is resident year-round, small and potentially discrete, warranting further research and conservation efforts.
Rosenbaum,H.C.,Pomilla,C.,Olavarria,C.,Baker,C.S.,Leslie,M.,Mendez,M.C.,Caballero,S.,Brasseur,M,Bannister,J.L,Best,P.B.,Bonatto,S.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Engel,M.H.,Ersts,P.J.,Findlay,K.P.,Florez-Gonzalez,L.,Garrigue,C.,Hauser,N.,Jenner,C.,Meyer,M.,Minton,G.,Poole,M.M.,Razafindrakoto,Y.
A first and preliminary analysis of mtDNA sequences from humpback whales for breeding stocks A-G and X Technical Report
no. 461, 2006, ISBN: SC/A06/HW59.
BibTeX | Tags: Atlantic, Atlantic Ocean, breeding grounds, DNA, dolphin, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, mitochondrial DNA, Oman, population, South Atlantic, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {A first and preliminary analysis of mtDNA sequences from humpback whales for breeding stocks A-G and X},
author = {Rosenbaum,H.C.,Pomilla,C.,Olavarria,C.,Baker,C.S.,Leslie,M.,Mendez,M.C.,Caballero,S.,Brasseur,M,Bannister,J.L,Best,P.B.,Bonatto,S.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Engel,M.H.,Ersts,P.J.,Findlay,K.P.,Florez-Gonzalez,L.,Garrigue,C.,Hauser,N.,Jenner,C.,Meyer,M.,Minton,G.,Poole,M.M.,Razafindrakoto,Y.},
issn = {SC/A06/HW59},
year = {2006},
date = {2006-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the Comprehensive Assessment of Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whales, Hobart, Tasmania},
volume = {SC/A06/HW59},
number = {461},
keywords = {Atlantic, Atlantic Ocean, breeding grounds, DNA, dolphin, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, mitochondrial DNA, Oman, population, South Atlantic, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Mehta,A.V.
How important are baleen whales as prey for killer whales (Orcinus orca) in high-latitude waters? PhD Thesis
2004.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Alaska, Antarctic, Atlantic, Australia, baleen whales, Blue whale, blue whales, Gulf of Maine, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, killer whale, killer whales, New Caledonia, New Zealand, North Atlantic, North Atlantic right whale, North Pacific, Oman, Orca, Orcinus orca, population, prey, pygmy blue whale, Pygmy blue whales, right whale, right whales, whale, whales, whaling
@phdthesis{,
title = {How important are baleen whales as prey for killer whales (Orcinus orca) in high-latitude waters?},
author = {Mehta,A.V.},
year = {2004},
date = {2004-01-01},
number = {403},
pages = {1-15},
publisher = {Boston University},
abstract = {Data on humpback whales were collected from twenty-one regions: eleven in the North Atlantic and three in the North Pacific, as well as American Samoa, Vava'u (Tonga), New Zealand, New Caledonia, western Australia, the Antarctic Peninsula, and Oman. The other species and subspecies included in this project were sampled from a single population each (Fig. 1): North Atlantic right whales, blue whales off southeastern Australia, and pygmy blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus brevicauda) off western Australia. The proportion of whales in different sampling regions bearing rake marks ranged from 0% to over 40%. The Gulf of Maine population had a scarring rate of 9.9-11%, while SW Alaska had a rate of 21.1 to 21.9%. Oman had a rate of 9.1% (3 of 33 animals). The highest rate of scarring was the "Mexico" population with a scarring rate of over 40%. Of those scarred animals with multi-year sighting histories, 82.8% to 100% had those scars the first time they were sighted. Of the total number of whales sampled from these regions, 0% to only 4.8% acquired new or additional rake marks after their first sighting, supporting the hypothesis that most whales aquire their scars as calves, and that adult baleen whales do not constitute a major prey source for killer whales.Overall, the present study suggests that the hypothesis presented by Springer et al. (2003) - that killer whales in the North Pacific were forced by industrial whaling to switch prey from baleen whales to pinnipeds and sea otters - is untenable.},
keywords = {Alaska, Antarctic, Atlantic, Australia, baleen whales, Blue whale, blue whales, Gulf of Maine, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, killer whale, killer whales, New Caledonia, New Zealand, North Atlantic, North Atlantic right whale, North Pacific, Oman, Orca, Orcinus orca, population, prey, pygmy blue whale, Pygmy blue whales, right whale, right whales, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {phdthesis}
}
Data on humpback whales were collected from twenty-one regions: eleven in the North Atlantic and three in the North Pacific, as well as American Samoa, Vava'u (Tonga), New Zealand, New Caledonia, western Australia, the Antarctic Peninsula, and Oman. The other species and subspecies included in this project were sampled from a single population each (Fig. 1): North Atlantic right whales, blue whales off southeastern Australia, and pygmy blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus brevicauda) off western Australia. The proportion of whales in different sampling regions bearing rake marks ranged from 0% to over 40%. The Gulf of Maine population had a scarring rate of 9.9-11%, while SW Alaska had a rate of 21.1 to 21.9%. Oman had a rate of 9.1% (3 of 33 animals). The highest rate of scarring was the "Mexico" population with a scarring rate of over 40%. Of those scarred animals with multi-year sighting histories, 82.8% to 100% had those scars the first time they were sighted. Of the total number of whales sampled from these regions, 0% to only 4.8% acquired new or additional rake marks after their first sighting, supporting the hypothesis that most whales aquire their scars as calves, and that adult baleen whales do not constitute a major prey source for killer whales.Overall, the present study suggests that the hypothesis presented by Springer et al. (2003) - that killer whales in the North Pacific were forced by industrial whaling to switch prey from baleen whales to pinnipeds and sea otters - is untenable.
Minton,G.
Ecology and Conservation of Cetaceans in Oman, with particular reference to humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) PhD Thesis
2004.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: cetacean, cetaceans, conservation, ecology, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, whale, whales
@phdthesis{,
title = {Ecology and Conservation of Cetaceans in Oman, with particular reference to humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae)},
author = {Minton,G.},
year = {2004},
date = {2004-01-01},
number = {407},
pages = {250},
publisher = {University of London, University Marine Biological Station, Millport},
abstract = {Small boat surveys were conducted between 2000 and 2003 in three main areas of Oman's coastal waters: Muscat, the Gulf of Masirah and Dhofar. Species sighted during surveys include (in order of frequency) bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops sp.), common dolphins (Delphinus capensis), humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris), Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis), Bryde's whales (Balaenoptera brydeii), Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus), false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens), blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) and unidentified beaked whales. Relative abundance analyses with respect to study area, depth and slope reveal clear trends for the seven most frequently encountered species, which generally demonstrate the same habitat preferences as con-specifics elsewhere.
Analyses of humpback whale seasonal distribution, group composition and behaviour reveal that both breeding and feeding take place off the coast of Oman. Photo-identification of individual whales reveals a high level of site fidelity and capture-recapture methods yield population estimates of less than 100 individuals for the study areas, but sample sizes are small and variance values were high. Comparison of the Oman photo-identification catalogue, as well as mitochondrial DNA haplotype frequencies with those from other study areas in the Southern Indian Ocean, support the theory of a resident Arabian Sea population with little or no ongoing exchange with other Indian Ocean stocks.
Rapid population growth, infrastructure development, and expansion of fisheries in Oman are placing increased pressure on coastal and marine habitats. Data from systematic beach surveys indicate relatively high levels of mortality for bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops sp., humpback dolphins, Sousa chinensis, and Bryde's whales, Balaenoptera brydeii. 52% of beach-cast cetacean specimens show signs of fisheries-related mortality, and analysis of humpback whale scarring patterns indicates that approximately a third of all photographed animals bear signs of fisheries interactions. Management and conservation of cetacean species in Oman will require continued research and monitoring, and increased cooperation between governmental bodies and other stakeholders in Oman, including coastal communities, fishers, fishing companies, developers, researchers and tourists as well as government planning bodies.},
keywords = {cetacean, cetaceans, conservation, ecology, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {phdthesis}
}
Small boat surveys were conducted between 2000 and 2003 in three main areas of Oman's coastal waters: Muscat, the Gulf of Masirah and Dhofar. Species sighted during surveys include (in order of frequency) bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops sp.), common dolphins (Delphinus capensis), humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris), Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis), Bryde's whales (Balaenoptera brydeii), Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus), false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens), blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) and unidentified beaked whales. Relative abundance analyses with respect to study area, depth and slope reveal clear trends for the seven most frequently encountered species, which generally demonstrate the same habitat preferences as con-specifics elsewhere.
Analyses of humpback whale seasonal distribution, group composition and behaviour reveal that both breeding and feeding take place off the coast of Oman. Photo-identification of individual whales reveals a high level of site fidelity and capture-recapture methods yield population estimates of less than 100 individuals for the study areas, but sample sizes are small and variance values were high. Comparison of the Oman photo-identification catalogue, as well as mitochondrial DNA haplotype frequencies with those from other study areas in the Southern Indian Ocean, support the theory of a resident Arabian Sea population with little or no ongoing exchange with other Indian Ocean stocks.
Rapid population growth, infrastructure development, and expansion of fisheries in Oman are placing increased pressure on coastal and marine habitats. Data from systematic beach surveys indicate relatively high levels of mortality for bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops sp., humpback dolphins, Sousa chinensis, and Bryde's whales, Balaenoptera brydeii. 52% of beach-cast cetacean specimens show signs of fisheries-related mortality, and analysis of humpback whale scarring patterns indicates that approximately a third of all photographed animals bear signs of fisheries interactions. Management and conservation of cetacean species in Oman will require continued research and monitoring, and increased cooperation between governmental bodies and other stakeholders in Oman, including coastal communities, fishers, fishing companies, developers, researchers and tourists as well as government planning bodies.
Analyses of humpback whale seasonal distribution, group composition and behaviour reveal that both breeding and feeding take place off the coast of Oman. Photo-identification of individual whales reveals a high level of site fidelity and capture-recapture methods yield population estimates of less than 100 individuals for the study areas, but sample sizes are small and variance values were high. Comparison of the Oman photo-identification catalogue, as well as mitochondrial DNA haplotype frequencies with those from other study areas in the Southern Indian Ocean, support the theory of a resident Arabian Sea population with little or no ongoing exchange with other Indian Ocean stocks.
Rapid population growth, infrastructure development, and expansion of fisheries in Oman are placing increased pressure on coastal and marine habitats. Data from systematic beach surveys indicate relatively high levels of mortality for bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops sp., humpback dolphins, Sousa chinensis, and Bryde's whales, Balaenoptera brydeii. 52% of beach-cast cetacean specimens show signs of fisheries-related mortality, and analysis of humpback whale scarring patterns indicates that approximately a third of all photographed animals bear signs of fisheries interactions. Management and conservation of cetacean species in Oman will require continued research and monitoring, and increased cooperation between governmental bodies and other stakeholders in Oman, including coastal communities, fishers, fishing companies, developers, researchers and tourists as well as government planning bodies.
IWC
Report of the 54th meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission, Annex N Report of of the Working Group to Review Sanctuaries and Sanctuary Proposals Technical Report
no. 119, 2002.
BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, sanctuaries, Stock identity, whale, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Report of the 54th meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission, Annex N Report of of the Working Group to Review Sanctuaries and Sanctuary Proposals},
author = {IWC},
year = {2002},
date = {2002-01-01},
number = {119},
publisher = {International Whaling Commission},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, sanctuaries, Stock identity, whale, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Minton,G.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Findlay,K.P.,Baldwin,R.,Rosenbaum,H.C.,Kennedy,F.D.,Cockcroft,V.
Preliminary investigations of humpback whale Technical Report
no. 414, 2002, ISBN: SC/54/H3.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, Arabian Sea, Distribution, habitat use, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Northern Hemisphere, occurrence, Oman, population, relative abundance, sex-ratio, song, survey, whale, whales, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Preliminary investigations of humpback whale },
author = {Minton,G.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Findlay,K.P.,Baldwin,R.,Rosenbaum,H.C.,Kennedy,F.D.,Cockcroft,V.},
issn = {SC/54/H3},
year = {2002},
date = {2002-01-01},
journal = {Document presented to the 54th meeting of the International Whaling Commission},
volume = {SC/54/H3},
number = {414},
pages = {1-19},
abstract = {Previously published data on the occurrence of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Arabian Sea suggest that the region hosts a non-migratory population that adheres to a Northern Hemisphere breeding cycle. Six small boat surveys and one shore-based survey were conducted at three locations off the coast of Oman between February 2000 and February 2002. Encounter rates varied between surveys from 0.0 whales/hour to 0.545 whales per hour. Two of 36 photo-identified whales were re-sighted between surveys. Sex ratios in October were near parity while all whales sampled in February were male. Song was detected frequently in the Kuria Muria Bay in February, but records of mother-calf pairs are sparse and competitive groups were absent. Feeding was infrequently observed in both October and February. Implications for relative abundance and habitat use are discussed. Additional questions are raised and recommendations for further research are made.},
keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, Distribution, habitat use, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Northern Hemisphere, occurrence, Oman, population, relative abundance, sex-ratio, song, survey, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Previously published data on the occurrence of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Arabian Sea suggest that the region hosts a non-migratory population that adheres to a Northern Hemisphere breeding cycle. Six small boat surveys and one shore-based survey were conducted at three locations off the coast of Oman between February 2000 and February 2002. Encounter rates varied between surveys from 0.0 whales/hour to 0.545 whales per hour. Two of 36 photo-identified whales were re-sighted between surveys. Sex ratios in October were near parity while all whales sampled in February were male. Song was detected frequently in the Kuria Muria Bay in February, but records of mother-calf pairs are sparse and competitive groups were absent. Feeding was infrequently observed in both October and February. Implications for relative abundance and habitat use are discussed. Additional questions are raised and recommendations for further research are made.
Rosenbaum,H.C.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Minton,G.,Baldwin,R.,Glaberman,S.,Findlay,K.P.,Best,P.
Preliminary analysis of MtDNA variation among humpback whales off the coast of Oman and their relationships to whales from wintering grounds in the southwestern Indian Ocean Technical Report
no. 458, 2002, ISBN: SC/54/H4.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, genotyping, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, Mayotte, migration, Oman, population characteristics, South Africa, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Preliminary analysis of MtDNA variation among humpback whales off the coast of Oman and their relationships to whales from wintering grounds in the southwestern Indian Ocean},
author = {Rosenbaum,H.C.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Minton,G.,Baldwin,R.,Glaberman,S.,Findlay,K.P.,Best,P.},
issn = {SC/54/H4},
year = {2002},
date = {2002-01-01},
journal = {Document presented to the 54th meeting of the International Whaling Commission},
volume = {SC/54/H4},
number = {458},
pages = {1-10},
abstract = {Preliminary results of genetic analysis of skin tissue samples obtained from two sampling locations off the coast of Oman are compared with those obtained form longer term surveys in Madagascar, Mayotte, Mozambique and the east coast of South Africa. Haplotype diversity was relatively low for whales from Oman in comparison with other populations. Maternal lineage haplotypes were shared between whales from both sites in Oman and those of other populations. However, it is unclear whether these shared haplotypes indicate recent exchange/migration links between the Arabian Sea and SW Indian Ocean populations, or are the result of ancestral polymorphism from historical population expansion. Two private material lineage haplotypes were detected in Oman, represented by three individual whales.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, genotyping, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, Mayotte, migration, Oman, population characteristics, South Africa, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Preliminary results of genetic analysis of skin tissue samples obtained from two sampling locations off the coast of Oman are compared with those obtained form longer term surveys in Madagascar, Mayotte, Mozambique and the east coast of South Africa. Haplotype diversity was relatively low for whales from Oman in comparison with other populations. Maternal lineage haplotypes were shared between whales from both sites in Oman and those of other populations. However, it is unclear whether these shared haplotypes indicate recent exchange/migration links between the Arabian Sea and SW Indian Ocean populations, or are the result of ancestral polymorphism from historical population expansion. Two private material lineage haplotypes were detected in Oman, represented by three individual whales.
Baldwin,R.M.
Oman's humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) Journal Article
In: The Journal of Oman Studies, vol. 11 , no. 316, pp. 11-18, 2000.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, Arabian Sea, behaviour, conservation, Distribution, ecology, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, megaptera novaeangliae, mortality, occurrence, Oman, population, population identity, status, survey, whale, whales
@article{,
title = {Oman's humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) },
author = {Baldwin,R.M.},
year = {2000},
date = {2000-01-01},
journal = {The Journal of Oman Studies},
volume = {11 },
number = {316},
pages = {11-18},
abstract = {Data are presented on the general distribution and abundance of humpback whales off the coast of the Sultanate of Oman, with particular reference to observations made during an offshore seismic survey in the Arabian Sea in November 1997. Additional information is presented on seasonal occurrence, ecology and behaviour, external appearance, conservation, mortality, incidental capture, population status and identity of Oman's humpback whales. The data generally support the notion of year-round residency of humpback whales off the coast of Oman, but indicate the need for further research to establish whether the low frequency of positive records during summer months is a true reflection of seasonal distribution. Other research on humpback whales in the region is recommended.},
keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, behaviour, conservation, Distribution, ecology, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, megaptera novaeangliae, mortality, occurrence, Oman, population, population identity, status, survey, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Data are presented on the general distribution and abundance of humpback whales off the coast of the Sultanate of Oman, with particular reference to observations made during an offshore seismic survey in the Arabian Sea in November 1997. Additional information is presented on seasonal occurrence, ecology and behaviour, external appearance, conservation, mortality, incidental capture, population status and identity of Oman's humpback whales. The data generally support the notion of year-round residency of humpback whales off the coast of Oman, but indicate the need for further research to establish whether the low frequency of positive records during summer months is a true reflection of seasonal distribution. Other research on humpback whales in the region is recommended.
Mikhalev,Y.A.
Whaling in the Arabian Sea by the whaling fleets Slava and Sovetskaya Ukraina Book
Center for Russian Environmental Policy, Marine Mammal Council, 2000.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Blue whale, blue whales, Bryde's whale, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, pygmy blue whale, Pygmy blue whales, Soviet whaling, sperm whale, sperm whales, whale, whales, whaling
@book{,
title = {Whaling in the Arabian Sea by the whaling fleets Slava and Sovetskaya Ukraina},
author = {Mikhalev,Y.A.},
year = {2000},
date = {2000-01-01},
journal = {Soviet Whaling Data [1949-1979]},
number = {156},
pages = {141-181},
publisher = {Center for Russian Environmental Policy, Marine Mammal Council},
abstract = {Thus, each of the two fleets, Slava and Sovetskaya Ukraina, operated in the Arabian Sea during three cruises. Their operations covered the period from 23 October to 15 December taking into account all the years of whaling in the Arabian Sea. In total these fleets took 1294 pygmy blue whales, 849 Bryde's whales, 242 humpback whales, and 954 sperm whales.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Blue whale, blue whales, Bryde's whale, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, pygmy blue whale, Pygmy blue whales, Soviet whaling, sperm whale, sperm whales, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
Thus, each of the two fleets, Slava and Sovetskaya Ukraina, operated in the Arabian Sea during three cruises. Their operations covered the period from 23 October to 15 December taking into account all the years of whaling in the Arabian Sea. In total these fleets took 1294 pygmy blue whales, 849 Bryde's whales, 242 humpback whales, and 954 sperm whales.
Phillip Clapham, Sharon Young, Robert L. Brownell Jr
Baleen whales: conservation issues and the status of the most endangered populations Journal Article
In: Mammal Review, vol. 29 , no. 69, pp. 35-60, 1999.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, Arabian Sea, Arctic, Balaena mysticetus, baleen whale, baleen whales, Blue whale, bowhead whale, bowhead whales, conservation, contaminants, disease, endangered, Entanglement, Eubalaena glacialis, fishing gear, gray whales, habitat degradation, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, mortality, Okhotsk Sea, population, populations, right whale, right whales, ship-strike, southern right whales, status, stocks, whale, whales, whaling
@article{,
title = {Baleen whales: conservation issues and the status of the most endangered populations },
author = {Phillip Clapham, Sharon Young, Robert L. Brownell Jr},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2907.1999.00035.x},
year = {1999},
date = {1999-01-01},
urldate = {1999-01-01},
journal = {Mammal Review},
volume = {29 },
number = {69},
pages = {35-60},
abstract = {Most species of baleen whales were subject to intensive overexploitation by commercial whaling in this and previous centuries, and many populations were reduced to small fractions of their original sizes. Here, we review the status of baleen whale stocks, with an emphasis on those that are known or thought to be critically endangered. Current data suggest that, of the various threats potentially affecting baleen whales, only entanglement in fishing gear and ship strikes may be significant at the population level, and then only in those populations which are already at critically low abundance. The impact of some problems (vessel harassment, and commercial or aboriginal whaling) is at present probably minor. For others (contaminants, habitat degradation, disease), existing data either indicate no immediate cause for concern, or are insufficient to permit an assessment. While the prospect for many baleen whales appears good, there are notable exceptions: populations that are of greatest concern are those suffering from low abundance and associated problems, including (in some cases) anthropogenic mortality. These include: all Northern Right N hales Eubalaena glacialis. Bowhead Whales Balaena mysticetus of the Okhotsk Sea and various eastern Arctic populations. western Gray Whales Eschrichtius robustus, and probably many Blue Whale Balaenoptera musculus populations. We review the status of these populations and. where known, the issues potentially affecting their recovery. Although Humpback Whales Megaptera novaeangliae and Southern Right Whales Eubalaena australis were also heavily exploited by whaling. existing data indicate strong recovery in most studied populations of these species.},
keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, Arctic, Balaena mysticetus, baleen whale, baleen whales, Blue whale, bowhead whale, bowhead whales, conservation, contaminants, disease, endangered, Entanglement, Eubalaena glacialis, fishing gear, gray whales, habitat degradation, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, mortality, Okhotsk Sea, population, populations, right whale, right whales, ship-strike, southern right whales, status, stocks, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Most species of baleen whales were subject to intensive overexploitation by commercial whaling in this and previous centuries, and many populations were reduced to small fractions of their original sizes. Here, we review the status of baleen whale stocks, with an emphasis on those that are known or thought to be critically endangered. Current data suggest that, of the various threats potentially affecting baleen whales, only entanglement in fishing gear and ship strikes may be significant at the population level, and then only in those populations which are already at critically low abundance. The impact of some problems (vessel harassment, and commercial or aboriginal whaling) is at present probably minor. For others (contaminants, habitat degradation, disease), existing data either indicate no immediate cause for concern, or are insufficient to permit an assessment. While the prospect for many baleen whales appears good, there are notable exceptions: populations that are of greatest concern are those suffering from low abundance and associated problems, including (in some cases) anthropogenic mortality. These include: all Northern Right N hales Eubalaena glacialis. Bowhead Whales Balaena mysticetus of the Okhotsk Sea and various eastern Arctic populations. western Gray Whales Eschrichtius robustus, and probably many Blue Whale Balaenoptera musculus populations. We review the status of these populations and. where known, the issues potentially affecting their recovery. Although Humpback Whales Megaptera novaeangliae and Southern Right Whales Eubalaena australis were also heavily exploited by whaling. existing data indicate strong recovery in most studied populations of these species.
Baldwin,R.
Humpback whales Technical Report
no. 19, 1998.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, Arabian Sea, behaviour, conservation, Distribution, ecology, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, megaptera novaeangliae, mortality, occurrence, Oman, population, population identity, status, survey, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Humpback whales },
author = {Baldwin,R.},
year = {1998},
date = {1998-01-01},
volume = {SC/50/CAWS21},
number = {19},
pages = {1-6},
abstract = {Data are presented on the general distribution and abundance of humpback whales off the coast of the Sultanate of Oman, with particular reference to observations made during an offshore seismic survey in the Arabian Sea in November 1997. Additional information is presented on seasonal occurrence, ecology and behaviour, external appearance, conservation, mortality, incidental capture and population status and identity of Oman's humpback whales. The data generally support the notion of year-round residency of humpback whales off the coast of Oman, but indicate the need for further research to establish whether the low frequency of positive records during summer months is a true reflection of seasonal distribution. Other research on humpback whales in the region is recommended.},
keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, behaviour, conservation, Distribution, ecology, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, megaptera novaeangliae, mortality, occurrence, Oman, population, population identity, status, survey, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Data are presented on the general distribution and abundance of humpback whales off the coast of the Sultanate of Oman, with particular reference to observations made during an offshore seismic survey in the Arabian Sea in November 1997. Additional information is presented on seasonal occurrence, ecology and behaviour, external appearance, conservation, mortality, incidental capture and population status and identity of Oman's humpback whales. The data generally support the notion of year-round residency of humpback whales off the coast of Oman, but indicate the need for further research to establish whether the low frequency of positive records during summer months is a true reflection of seasonal distribution. Other research on humpback whales in the region is recommended.
Baldwin,R.M.
Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) of the Sultanate of Oman Technical Report
no. 315, 1998.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, Arabian Sea, behaviour, conservation, Distribution, ecology, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, megaptera novaeangliae, mortality, occurrence, Oman, population, population identity, status, survey, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) of the Sultanate of Oman },
author = {Baldwin,R.M.},
year = {1998},
date = {1998-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
volume = {SC/50/CAWS21 },
number = {315},
pages = {1-6},
abstract = {Data are presented on the general distribution and abundance of humpback whales off the coast of the Sultanate of Oman, with particular reference to observations made during an offshore seismic survey in the Arabian Sea in November 1997. Additional information is presented on seasonal occurrence, ecology and behaviour, external appearance, conservation, mortality, incidental capture and population status and identity of Oman's humpback whales. The data generally support the notion of year-round residency of humpback whales off the coast of Oman, but indicate the need for further research to establish whether the low frequency of positive records during summer months is a true reflection of seasonal distribution. Other research on humpback whales in the region is recommended.},
keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, behaviour, conservation, Distribution, ecology, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, megaptera novaeangliae, mortality, occurrence, Oman, population, population identity, status, survey, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Data are presented on the general distribution and abundance of humpback whales off the coast of the Sultanate of Oman, with particular reference to observations made during an offshore seismic survey in the Arabian Sea in November 1997. Additional information is presented on seasonal occurrence, ecology and behaviour, external appearance, conservation, mortality, incidental capture and population status and identity of Oman's humpback whales. The data generally support the notion of year-round residency of humpback whales off the coast of Oman, but indicate the need for further research to establish whether the low frequency of positive records during summer months is a true reflection of seasonal distribution. Other research on humpback whales in the region is recommended.
IWC
Report of the 50th meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission, Annex Report of the Sub-Committee on Other Great Whales Technical Report
no. 118, 1998.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, Stock identity, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Report of the 50th meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission, Annex Report of the Sub-Committee on Other Great Whales},
author = {IWC},
year = {1998},
date = {1998-01-01},
number = {118},
abstract = {The report summarizes the documents presented to, and discussed in the subcommittee on other great whales. It focusses on the definition of whale stocks around the globe. It includes specific mention of the recent papers (Mikhalev 1997, Baldwin 1998) on humpback whales in the Arabian Sea, and strongly recommends further research. "The subcommittee recommended that dedicated surveys should be carried out to establish the status of humpback whales in the northwest Indian Ocean, and that these should include the collection of biopsy material from which the genetic relationships of this interesting stock could be investigated (particularly since genetic material was now available form Madagascar to the south)."},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, Stock identity, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
The report summarizes the documents presented to, and discussed in the subcommittee on other great whales. It focusses on the definition of whale stocks around the globe. It includes specific mention of the recent papers (Mikhalev 1997, Baldwin 1998) on humpback whales in the Arabian Sea, and strongly recommends further research. "The subcommittee recommended that dedicated surveys should be carried out to establish the status of humpback whales in the northwest Indian Ocean, and that these should include the collection of biopsy material from which the genetic relationships of this interesting stock could be investigated (particularly since genetic material was now available form Madagascar to the south)."
Mikhalev,Y.A.
Sperm whales of the Arabian Sea Technical Report
no. 155, 1998.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, baleen whale, baleen whales, Blue whale, blue whales, Bryde's whale, cetacean, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, IWC, pygmy blue whale, Pygmy blue whales, Slava, Soviet whaling, sperm whale, sperm whales, whale, whales, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Sperm whales of the Arabian Sea},
author = {Mikhalev,Y.A.},
year = {1998},
date = {1998-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the Scientific Committee of the Internaitonal Whaling Commission},
volume = {SC/50/CAWS40},
number = {155},
pages = {1-7},
publisher = {Internaitonal Whaling Commission},
abstract = {This article is part of the ongoing publication of materials about true whale catches by Soviet whaling fleets (Yablokov, 1994, Tormosov, 1995; Zemsky, et al, 1995, 1995a, 1996; Mikhalev 1995, 1997, 1997a). The goal of this article is to provide real quantitative characteristics, as well as size and sexual composition, of the sperm whales taken by the fleets Slava and Sovietskaya Ukraina in the Arabian Sea during the period 1963 to 1967. While the catching of baleen whales - pygmy blue whales, Bryde's whales, and humpback whales - in the northwestern Indian Ocean (Mikhalev, 1995, 1997) was absolutely prohibited and thus was a most serious violation of IWC rules, the sperm whale catches in the region had a more masked character. Harvesting of this species was not restricted to areas south of the 40øS, but rather by date and animal size. The first information about sperm whales met in this region by Soviet whalers became known through Yukhov (1969) His article reported that the stock was mixed, including both barren and lactating females as well as young males. Such detailed information about the sperm whales' stock structure should have indicated that the author's primary material was not based on visual observation, but on the results of catches. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, cetacean research laboratories were liquidated and a portion of their primary materials disappeared. Other portions ended up distributed among various former Soviet republics, now independent states, and in private archives. Nonetheless, it was possible to recover with a high level of confidence data on the biological composition, especially the quantitative and size characteristics, of whales taken in the Arabian Sea.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, baleen whale, baleen whales, Blue whale, blue whales, Bryde's whale, cetacean, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, IWC, pygmy blue whale, Pygmy blue whales, Slava, Soviet whaling, sperm whale, sperm whales, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
This article is part of the ongoing publication of materials about true whale catches by Soviet whaling fleets (Yablokov, 1994, Tormosov, 1995; Zemsky, et al, 1995, 1995a, 1996; Mikhalev 1995, 1997, 1997a). The goal of this article is to provide real quantitative characteristics, as well as size and sexual composition, of the sperm whales taken by the fleets Slava and Sovietskaya Ukraina in the Arabian Sea during the period 1963 to 1967. While the catching of baleen whales - pygmy blue whales, Bryde's whales, and humpback whales - in the northwestern Indian Ocean (Mikhalev, 1995, 1997) was absolutely prohibited and thus was a most serious violation of IWC rules, the sperm whale catches in the region had a more masked character. Harvesting of this species was not restricted to areas south of the 40øS, but rather by date and animal size. The first information about sperm whales met in this region by Soviet whalers became known through Yukhov (1969) His article reported that the stock was mixed, including both barren and lactating females as well as young males. Such detailed information about the sperm whales' stock structure should have indicated that the author's primary material was not based on visual observation, but on the results of catches. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, cetacean research laboratories were liquidated and a portion of their primary materials disappeared. Other portions ended up distributed among various former Soviet republics, now independent states, and in private archives. Nonetheless, it was possible to recover with a high level of confidence data on the biological composition, especially the quantitative and size characteristics, of whales taken in the Arabian Sea.
Baldwin,R.M.
Records of Wildlife and Observed Operational Impacts on Wildlife. Seismic Survey, Block 22, Oman. Environmental Observation Report 1. Technical Report
no. 314, 1997.
BibTeX | Tags: Gulf of Masirah, humpback whales, Oman, seismic surveys, sperm whale, survey
@techreport{,
title = {Records of Wildlife and Observed Operational Impacts on Wildlife. Seismic Survey, Block 22, Oman. Environmental Observation Report 1.},
author = {Baldwin,R.M.},
year = {1997},
date = {1997-01-01},
journal = {Unpublished report for Triton Oman Inc.},
number = {314},
pages = {1-76},
keywords = {Gulf of Masirah, humpback whales, Oman, seismic surveys, sperm whale, survey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Mikhalev,Y.A.
Humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae in the Arabian Sea Journal Article
In: Marine Ecology Progress Series, vol. 149, no. 154, pp. 13-21, 1997.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, Arabian Sea, Distribution, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, India, Indian Ocean, length, megaptera novaeangliae, Northern Hemisphere, Oman, Pakistan, pathology, population, Population Biology, population identity, reproduction, whale, whales, whaling
@article{,
title = {Humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae in the Arabian Sea},
author = {Mikhalev,Y.A.},
year = {1997},
date = {1997-01-01},
journal = {Marine Ecology Progress Series},
volume = {149},
number = {154},
pages = {13-21},
abstract = {The population identity of humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae in the Arabian Sea has long been a matter of dispute. New information is presented from this region, based upon whaling and observations conducted by the Soviet Union, primarily in November 1966. In that month, a total of 238 humpbacks were killed off the coasts of Oman, Pakistan and northwestern India; 4 others were killed in 1965. Biological examination of these whales showed that they differed significantly from Antarctic humpbacks in terms of size, coloration, body scars and pathology. In addition, analysis of the length distribution of 38 foetuses indicates that the reproductive cycle of the Arabian Sea whales was unequivocally that of a northern hemisphere population. Mean lengths were 12.8 m for males (range: 9.5 to 14.9 m, n = 126) and 13.3 m for females (range: 9.5 to 15.2 m, n = 112). All whales 12.5 m or more in length were sexually mature. Among 97 females examined, 12 (12.4%) were immature. Of the 85 mature females, 39 (45.9%) were pregnant, 3 (3.5%) were lactating, and 43 (50.6%) were resting. A more plausible pregnancy rate, adjusted for underrepresentation of lactating females, was estimated at 39%. A majority of stomachs examined contained food, including euphausiids and fish. Overall, the data presented here argue strongly that Arabian Sea humpbacks constitute a discrete population which remains in tropical waters year-round, a situation which is unique for this species.},
keywords = {Antarctic, Arabian Sea, Distribution, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, India, Indian Ocean, length, megaptera novaeangliae, Northern Hemisphere, Oman, Pakistan, pathology, population, Population Biology, population identity, reproduction, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The population identity of humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae in the Arabian Sea has long been a matter of dispute. New information is presented from this region, based upon whaling and observations conducted by the Soviet Union, primarily in November 1966. In that month, a total of 238 humpbacks were killed off the coasts of Oman, Pakistan and northwestern India; 4 others were killed in 1965. Biological examination of these whales showed that they differed significantly from Antarctic humpbacks in terms of size, coloration, body scars and pathology. In addition, analysis of the length distribution of 38 foetuses indicates that the reproductive cycle of the Arabian Sea whales was unequivocally that of a northern hemisphere population. Mean lengths were 12.8 m for males (range: 9.5 to 14.9 m, n = 126) and 13.3 m for females (range: 9.5 to 15.2 m, n = 112). All whales 12.5 m or more in length were sexually mature. Among 97 females examined, 12 (12.4%) were immature. Of the 85 mature females, 39 (45.9%) were pregnant, 3 (3.5%) were lactating, and 43 (50.6%) were resting. A more plausible pregnancy rate, adjusted for underrepresentation of lactating females, was estimated at 39%. A majority of stomachs examined contained food, including euphausiids and fish. Overall, the data presented here argue strongly that Arabian Sea humpbacks constitute a discrete population which remains in tropical waters year-round, a situation which is unique for this species.
IWC
Report of the 42nd meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission, Report of of the Small Cetacean Subcommittee Technical Report
no. 117, 1992.
BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, sanctuaries, Stock identity, whale, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Report of the 42nd meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission, Report of of the Small Cetacean Subcommittee},
author = {IWC},
year = {1992},
date = {1992-01-01},
number = {117},
pages = {178-234},
publisher = {International Whaling Commission},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, sanctuaries, Stock identity, whale, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
IUCN
Cetaceans and cetacean research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary Book Chapter
In: no. 391, pp. 1-287, UNEP, 1991.
BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling
@inbook{,
title = {Cetaceans and cetacean research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary},
author = {IUCN},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {UNEP marine Mammal Technical Report number 3},
number = {391},
pages = {1-287},
publisher = {UNEP},
keywords = {Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inbook}
}
Leatherwood, S.,Donovan, G.P.
Cetaceans and cetacean research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary Book Chapter
In: no. 397, pp. 1-287, UNEP, 1991.
BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling
@inbook{,
title = {Cetaceans and cetacean research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary},
author = {Leatherwood, S.,Donovan, G.P.},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {UNEP marine Mammal Technical Report number 3},
number = {397},
pages = {1-287},
publisher = {UNEP},
keywords = {Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inbook}
}
Reeves,R.R.,Leatherwood,S.,Papastavrou,V.
Possible stock affinities of humpback whales in the northern Indian Ocean Book
UNEP, 1991.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling
@book{,
title = {Possible stock affinities of humpback whales in the northern Indian Ocean},
author = {Reeves,R.R.,Leatherwood,S.,Papastavrou,V.},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {Cetaceans and Cetacean Research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary: Marine Mammal Technical Report Number 3},
number = {443},
pages = {259-269},
publisher = {UNEP},
abstract = {Records of humpback whales. Megaptera novaeangliae. in the northern Indian Ocean are compiled and evaluated to test various hypotheses concerning stock relationships. The conventional view that all humpbacks in this region are migrants from the Southern Hemisphere or, less likely, from the Pacific Ocean has been challenged recently by other authors. There is no reason to doubt that some Antarctic humpbacks cross the. Equator during their winter breeding migration northward. However, sightings in the northern Indian Ocean during the austral spring, summer and fall arc sufficiently frequent and widespread to support the hypothesis that some whales remain north of the Equator in the Indian Ocean year-round. Humpbacks appear to be present off Oman throughout the year, including relatively large concentrations, apparently feeding, during boreal summer/fall. We postulate that areas of cool, highly productive upwelling near the coast of Oman create conditions suitable for humpback feeding. The northern Indian Ocean is characterised by a virtual absence of modern commercial whaling and a paucity of cetacean research. As a result. evidence is insufficient to determine the relationships between stocks of humpbacks in the northern Indian Ocean and stocks of humpbacks elsewhere.},
keywords = {Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
Records of humpback whales. Megaptera novaeangliae. in the northern Indian Ocean are compiled and evaluated to test various hypotheses concerning stock relationships. The conventional view that all humpbacks in this region are migrants from the Southern Hemisphere or, less likely, from the Pacific Ocean has been challenged recently by other authors. There is no reason to doubt that some Antarctic humpbacks cross the. Equator during their winter breeding migration northward. However, sightings in the northern Indian Ocean during the austral spring, summer and fall arc sufficiently frequent and widespread to support the hypothesis that some whales remain north of the Equator in the Indian Ocean year-round. Humpbacks appear to be present off Oman throughout the year, including relatively large concentrations, apparently feeding, during boreal summer/fall. We postulate that areas of cool, highly productive upwelling near the coast of Oman create conditions suitable for humpback feeding. The northern Indian Ocean is characterised by a virtual absence of modern commercial whaling and a paucity of cetacean research. As a result. evidence is insufficient to determine the relationships between stocks of humpbacks in the northern Indian Ocean and stocks of humpbacks elsewhere.
Small,J.A..,Small,G.J.
Cetacean observations from the Somali Democratic Republic, September 1985 through May 1987 Journal Article
In: CEtaceans and Cetacean Research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary: UNEP - Marine Mammal Technical Report No.3, no. 476, pp. 179-210, 1991.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, Blue whale, bottlenose dolphin, Bryde's whale, cetacean, cetaceans, Common dolphin, dolphin, false killer whale, Gulf of Aden, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, killer whale, location, marine, megaptera novaeangliae, melon-headed whale, migration, occurrence, Oman, Pacific Ocean, Risso's dolphin, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, sperm whale, Spinner dolphin, spotted dolphin, stocks, Striped dolphin, survey, trend, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling
@article{,
title = {Cetacean observations from the Somali Democratic Republic, September 1985 through May 1987},
author = {Small,J.A..,Small,G.J.},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {CEtaceans and Cetacean Research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary: UNEP - Marine Mammal Technical Report No.3},
number = {476},
pages = {179-210},
abstract = {Two vessels operated along the Gulf of Aden and northern Indian Ocean coasts of Somalia from Aug. 1985 through May 1987. Their fishing activities carried them on a routine basis from Djibouti to the Horn of Africa and, on many cruises, into the Indian Ocean as far south as 8øN. The frequent and regular presence of these vessels afforded a unique opportunity for research since few previous surveys along the Somalian coast were transitory and/or of short duration. There were 398 sightings of cetaceans representing at least 14 species: blue whale, Bryde's whale, sperm whale, melon-headed whale, false killer whale, killer whale, short-finned pilot whale, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, Risso's dolphin, spotted dolphin, striped dolphin and spinner dolphin (NO humpback whales!!). Sightings locations and related environmental data are discussed. Some trends between years were seen in the occurrence and location of blue, killer and short-finned pilot whales.},
keywords = {Antarctic, Blue whale, bottlenose dolphin, Bryde's whale, cetacean, cetaceans, Common dolphin, dolphin, false killer whale, Gulf of Aden, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, killer whale, location, marine, megaptera novaeangliae, melon-headed whale, migration, occurrence, Oman, Pacific Ocean, Risso's dolphin, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, sperm whale, Spinner dolphin, spotted dolphin, stocks, Striped dolphin, survey, trend, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Two vessels operated along the Gulf of Aden and northern Indian Ocean coasts of Somalia from Aug. 1985 through May 1987. Their fishing activities carried them on a routine basis from Djibouti to the Horn of Africa and, on many cruises, into the Indian Ocean as far south as 8øN. The frequent and regular presence of these vessels afforded a unique opportunity for research since few previous surveys along the Somalian coast were transitory and/or of short duration. There were 398 sightings of cetaceans representing at least 14 species: blue whale, Bryde's whale, sperm whale, melon-headed whale, false killer whale, killer whale, short-finned pilot whale, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, Risso's dolphin, spotted dolphin, striped dolphin and spinner dolphin (NO humpback whales!!). Sightings locations and related environmental data are discussed. Some trends between years were seen in the occurrence and location of blue, killer and short-finned pilot whales.
Whitehead,H.
Humpback whale songs from the North Indian Ocean Journal Article
In: Investigations on Cetacea, vol. 17, no. 499, pp. 157-162, 1985.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, North Pacific, Northern Hemisphere, Oman, singing, Southern Hemisphere
@article{,
title = {Humpback whale songs from the North Indian Ocean},
author = {Whitehead,H.},
year = {1985},
date = {1985-01-01},
journal = {Investigations on Cetacea},
volume = {17},
number = {499},
pages = {157-162},
abstract = {The Author conducted acoustic watches during surveys conducted in the WWF-UUCN Indian Ocean Sperm Whale Project. The survey area extended between the Seychelles and Chagos in the South, to Sri Lanka, India and Oman (Muscat) in the north. It did not include the NW coast of India, Pakistan or Iran. Song was detected near the Kuria Muria Islands from Jan 15th-17th 1982, and in the Gulf of Mannar in Sri Lanka between 19 Feb and 10 March 1982. The songs in both these places contained similar content, and the author concludes that at least some whales were present in these areas and adhering to a Northern Hemisphere breeding cycle. He supports Ross's 1981 suggestion that upwelling in the NIO provides a year-round food source, and that the singing whales are neither Southern Hemisphere migrants, or North Pacific visitors. As no humpback whales were directly observed, he suggests that the survey either missed areas of peak concentration, or that the population is small and dispersed.},
keywords = {Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, North Pacific, Northern Hemisphere, Oman, singing, Southern Hemisphere},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The Author conducted acoustic watches during surveys conducted in the WWF-UUCN Indian Ocean Sperm Whale Project. The survey area extended between the Seychelles and Chagos in the South, to Sri Lanka, India and Oman (Muscat) in the north. It did not include the NW coast of India, Pakistan or Iran. Song was detected near the Kuria Muria Islands from Jan 15th-17th 1982, and in the Gulf of Mannar in Sri Lanka between 19 Feb and 10 March 1982. The songs in both these places contained similar content, and the author concludes that at least some whales were present in these areas and adhering to a Northern Hemisphere breeding cycle. He supports Ross's 1981 suggestion that upwelling in the NIO provides a year-round food source, and that the singing whales are neither Southern Hemisphere migrants, or North Pacific visitors. As no humpback whales were directly observed, he suggests that the survey either missed areas of peak concentration, or that the population is small and dispersed.
Alling,G.,Gordon,J.,Rotton,N.,Whitehead,H.
Indian Ocean Sperm Whale study, 1981 - 1982 interim report Technical Report
no. 281, 1982.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: behaviour, dolphin, dolphins, Eubalaena glacialis, Fisheries, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, objectives, Oman, physeter, population, populations, sanctuaries, sperm whale, sperm whales, survey, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Indian Ocean Sperm Whale study, 1981 - 1982 interim report},
author = {Alling,G.,Gordon,J.,Rotton,N.,Whitehead,H.},
year = {1982},
date = {1982-01-01},
number = {281},
pages = {1-43},
publisher = {WWF},
abstract = {The establishment of the Indian Ocean Whale Sanctuary in 1979 gave whale science an opportunity and a challenge: the opportunity to study protected whale; and the challenge to show that whale populations can be monitored purely through studies of living animals. The sperm whale (Physeter catodon), is commercially the most important, and the most numerous, large whale. It may be a significant link in the food web on account of returning nutrients from the deep ocean to the surface through its faeces. Analysis of the composition of sperm whale catches suggests that the sperm whale possesses a unique and interesting social system (Best 1979), a thorough knowledge of which is essential if these exceptional animals are to be properly protected.It was thus appropriate to carry out a study of the behaviour of the sperm whales in the Indian Ocean, principally using the methods developed on living right, grey and humpback whales, and the money raised by WWF-Netherlands. In order to obtain significant results it was thought necessary to have three field seasons of several months each.As very little was known of the whales of the Indian Ocean the first season consisted of a survey of those parts of the NW Indian Ocean which might have been suitable for studying sperm whales. During the survey methods of studying living sperm whales were to be developed, and other whales, dolphins, and marine mammal fisheries examined as circumstances permitted. From this survey we were to decide on the most suitable area and methods for studying sperm whales in subsequent seasons. We were also to recommend which other marine mammal research projects in the area should be undertaken, either as part of our project or separately.We report here on the first field season. Because of the deadline (within two weeks of the end of the field work) the data has not been rigorously analysed, and we can give only the most basic results. However we hope that this report indicates that the study was successful within its objectives.},
keywords = {behaviour, dolphin, dolphins, Eubalaena glacialis, Fisheries, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, objectives, Oman, physeter, population, populations, sanctuaries, sperm whale, sperm whales, survey, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
The establishment of the Indian Ocean Whale Sanctuary in 1979 gave whale science an opportunity and a challenge: the opportunity to study protected whale; and the challenge to show that whale populations can be monitored purely through studies of living animals. The sperm whale (Physeter catodon), is commercially the most important, and the most numerous, large whale. It may be a significant link in the food web on account of returning nutrients from the deep ocean to the surface through its faeces. Analysis of the composition of sperm whale catches suggests that the sperm whale possesses a unique and interesting social system (Best 1979), a thorough knowledge of which is essential if these exceptional animals are to be properly protected.It was thus appropriate to carry out a study of the behaviour of the sperm whales in the Indian Ocean, principally using the methods developed on living right, grey and humpback whales, and the money raised by WWF-Netherlands. In order to obtain significant results it was thought necessary to have three field seasons of several months each.As very little was known of the whales of the Indian Ocean the first season consisted of a survey of those parts of the NW Indian Ocean which might have been suitable for studying sperm whales. During the survey methods of studying living sperm whales were to be developed, and other whales, dolphins, and marine mammal fisheries examined as circumstances permitted. From this survey we were to decide on the most suitable area and methods for studying sperm whales in subsequent seasons. We were also to recommend which other marine mammal research projects in the area should be undertaken, either as part of our project or separately.We report here on the first field season. Because of the deadline (within two weeks of the end of the field work) the data has not been rigorously analysed, and we can give only the most basic results. However we hope that this report indicates that the study was successful within its objectives.
Ross,J.P.
Recent marine mammal sightings in the Sultanate of Oman (1980-1981) Technical Report
no. 462, 1981.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: breeding grounds, cetacean, cetaceans, dugong, feeding, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, Oman, sanctuaries, Strandings, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Recent marine mammal sightings in the Sultanate of Oman (1980-1981)},
author = {Ross,J.P.},
year = {1981},
date = {1981-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the special meeting of the IWC to plan a programme of scientific research on cetaceans in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary, Zeist, Netherlands.},
volume = {Document 23},
number = {462},
abstract = {This brief report summarises observations of live cetaceans, strandings and interviews with local fishermen. The source of sighting and stranding information is not always clear - stranded specimens referred to in this report were curated at the Zoological Museum in Amsterdam and the ONHM are also summarised in Gallagher 1991. JPR describes one stranding of a Dugong near Barka. He also describes Masirah fishermen's observations of a large whale with "bumps on its head like coffee cups" and long white flippers that they slap on the surface. He concludes that these are almost certainly humpback whales "migrating between summer feeding and winter breeding grounds. He also suggests that they were feeding on sardines which were abundant in the region during "these months" (although months not specified). Although he indicates that Oman's coast is abundant in food, yet tropical and thus suitable for breeding, he does not explicitly suggest that the humpbacks are year-round residents.},
keywords = {breeding grounds, cetacean, cetaceans, dugong, feeding, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, Oman, sanctuaries, Strandings, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
This brief report summarises observations of live cetaceans, strandings and interviews with local fishermen. The source of sighting and stranding information is not always clear - stranded specimens referred to in this report were curated at the Zoological Museum in Amsterdam and the ONHM are also summarised in Gallagher 1991. JPR describes one stranding of a Dugong near Barka. He also describes Masirah fishermen's observations of a large whale with "bumps on its head like coffee cups" and long white flippers that they slap on the surface. He concludes that these are almost certainly humpback whales "migrating between summer feeding and winter breeding grounds. He also suggests that they were feeding on sardines which were abundant in the region during "these months" (although months not specified). Although he indicates that Oman's coast is abundant in food, yet tropical and thus suitable for breeding, he does not explicitly suggest that the humpbacks are year-round residents.
Wray,P.,Martin,K.R.
Historical Whaling Records from the Western Indian Ocean Book
International Whaling Commission, 1980.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: 19th century, Arabian region, Blue whale, blue whales, historical whaling, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Oman, sperm whales, whaling, Yankee whaling
@book{,
title = {Historical Whaling Records from the Western Indian Ocean},
author = {Wray,P.,Martin,K.R.},
year = {1980},
date = {1980-01-01},
journal = {Report to the International Whaling Commission, Special issue 5: Special Issue on Historical Whaling Records.},
number = {511},
pages = {213-241},
publisher = {International Whaling Commission},
abstract = {Preliminary data from 19th century whaling in the western Indian Ocean is presented, including summary of effort by whaling grounds and by species. Catch data from 27 voyages (1800-88) is summarised with comments on the possibility of overfishing of sperm and right whales in the region. Humpback whales were taken opportunistically in Madagascar and Mozambique but were not reported for the Northern Arabian Sea. Sperm whales were taken between September and January in the "Arabian Grounds" (including Arabian Sea coasts of Oman and Yemen). Blue whales were seen on the Arabian grounds from September through November. One blue whale was taken from the Kuria Muria Islands in Dec 1868.},
keywords = {19th century, Arabian region, Blue whale, blue whales, historical whaling, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, Oman, sperm whales, whaling, Yankee whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
Preliminary data from 19th century whaling in the western Indian Ocean is presented, including summary of effort by whaling grounds and by species. Catch data from 27 voyages (1800-88) is summarised with comments on the possibility of overfishing of sperm and right whales in the region. Humpback whales were taken opportunistically in Madagascar and Mozambique but were not reported for the Northern Arabian Sea. Sperm whales were taken between September and January in the "Arabian Grounds" (including Arabian Sea coasts of Oman and Yemen). Blue whales were seen on the Arabian grounds from September through November. One blue whale was taken from the Kuria Muria Islands in Dec 1868.
Yukhov,V.L.
Observations of cetaceans in the Gulf of Aden and the northwestern part of the Arabian Sea Technical Report
no. 512, 1969.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Blue whale, blue whales, Bryde's whale, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Oman, Soviet whaling, sperm whales, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Observations of cetaceans in the Gulf of Aden and the northwestern part of the Arabian Sea},
author = {Yukhov,V.L.},
year = {1969},
date = {1969-01-01},
journal = {Morskie Mlekopitayashchie},
number = {512},
pages = {1-6},
publisher = {Izd-vo "Nauka"},
abstract = {This is a brief report of sightings in the Arabian Sea made from a whale catcher of the Sovetskaya Ukraina fleet in the 1964-65 whaling seasons (Oct-Dec). In very general terms it describes sightings of female and juvenile sperm whales in groups of 6-10 throughout the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea. This was the most frequently sighted species. Pygmy blue whales and Bryde's whales were also observed in both the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea, and specific mention is made of nearshore areas of the coasts of Somalia and the Oman. These species were both observed feeding (on their sides?). Small groups of humpback whales were observed East of Ras Fartak. Huge schools of small cetaceans were also observed feeding and the author concludes that the area provides an adequate supply of food for a variety of species.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Blue whale, blue whales, Bryde's whale, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Oman, Soviet whaling, sperm whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
This is a brief report of sightings in the Arabian Sea made from a whale catcher of the Sovetskaya Ukraina fleet in the 1964-65 whaling seasons (Oct-Dec). In very general terms it describes sightings of female and juvenile sperm whales in groups of 6-10 throughout the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea. This was the most frequently sighted species. Pygmy blue whales and Bryde's whales were also observed in both the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea, and specific mention is made of nearshore areas of the coasts of Somalia and the Oman. These species were both observed feeding (on their sides?). Small groups of humpback whales were observed East of Ras Fartak. Huge schools of small cetaceans were also observed feeding and the author concludes that the area provides an adequate supply of food for a variety of species.
Slijper,E.J.,Van Utrecht,W.L.,Naaktgeboren,C.
Remarks on the distribution and migration of whales Journal Article
In: Bijdragen tot de Dierkunde, vol. 34, no. 475, pp. 4-86, 1964.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Atlantic, density, Distribution, fin whale, Gulf of Aden, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, India, Indian Ocean, Maldives, migration, minke whale, minke whales, North Pacific, Oman, Pakistan, productivity, right whale, right whales, Southern Hemisphere, sperm whale, sperm whales, Strandings, whale, whales
@article{,
title = {Remarks on the distribution and migration of whales},
author = {Slijper,E.J.,Van Utrecht,W.L.,Naaktgeboren,C.},
year = {1964},
date = {1964-01-01},
journal = {Bijdragen tot de Dierkunde},
volume = {34},
number = {475},
pages = {4-86},
abstract = {The authors gained the cooperation of the Netherlands Association of Ship Owners and the Royal Netherlands Navy in a project to collect all whale sightings from vessels sailing around the globe between 1954 and 1957. A total of 4500 reports of 11,000 animals were received, with the majority of observations coming from the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Vessels were given identification guides and all reported observations were scored on the perceived reliability of the identification. All Rorqual whales were grouped together, and a further distinction was made between humpback, sperm, right whales and "little piked whales" (minke whales). Sightings were plotted in 10 degree squares according to number of whales observed per 1000 hours steamed in daylight. Special attention is given to the observations of Captain W.F.J. Morzer Bruins, who the authors describe as a keen naturalist whose observations hold more credibility than those of others. His observations in the Indian Ocean include a high number of sperm whales off the southern coast of Oman and the Gulf of Aden in January-March and April-June, a scattering of stranded blue and fin whales along the W coast of India, and only 2 stranded and 2 live humpback whales (strandings both in India, and live sightings near Yemen/Oman border? and off S tip of India (near Maldives?). The larger number of compiled sightings from vessels are presented by species. Rorqual sightings were plentiful in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea coasts of Oman and Pakistan, and in the Arabian Gulf (but not as plentiful as they were in the area between 30 and 40 degrees S. The author concludes that the majority of the whales observed in the NIO do not belong to the Southern Hemisphere stock, but suggests that they migrate from the North Pacific through the Indonesian Archipelago and the Strait Malaya (despite very few observations here). He briefly considers, but discards as unlikely, the hypothesis of a resident NIO stock.The total number of humpback whale sightings in the IO amounted to 500 (compared to 1618 rorqual sightings and 799 "whale" sightings). The majority of animals were observed in coastal waters, and NIO sightings were generally concentrated in the months of Aug-Nov and Jan-April. some of the highest recorded densities in the NIO are off of Pakistan in the months of March, Aug, Oct, and December, but it is not clear how closely related this is to observer effort. Observations are very few in May, June, July and September, and the authors do not link this to the monsoon -but rather conclude that the whales are not present at that time. Although few calves were observed in the NIO, those that were observed, were all observed in November, January or September (but no indication is given of calf size). The authors conclude that this is evidence that the observed whales do not belong to the S. Hem stock, but are more likely from the N.Pacific, despite the fact that there are "no sightings of humpbacks in the south China Sea or the Indonesian Archipelago that could support this assumption". Sperm whales were observed with regularity throughout the year in the NIO, but in lower densities than Rorquals. A low number of sightings in the NIO during summer months again leads the author to conclude that the animals either migrate South or to the N. Pacific. This species, according to the authors is always associated with areas of high productivity.Minke whales were recorded in low densities in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Pakistan, but not in the central or Northern coasts of Oman.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Atlantic, density, Distribution, fin whale, Gulf of Aden, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, India, Indian Ocean, Maldives, migration, minke whale, minke whales, North Pacific, Oman, Pakistan, productivity, right whale, right whales, Southern Hemisphere, sperm whale, sperm whales, Strandings, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The authors gained the cooperation of the Netherlands Association of Ship Owners and the Royal Netherlands Navy in a project to collect all whale sightings from vessels sailing around the globe between 1954 and 1957. A total of 4500 reports of 11,000 animals were received, with the majority of observations coming from the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Vessels were given identification guides and all reported observations were scored on the perceived reliability of the identification. All Rorqual whales were grouped together, and a further distinction was made between humpback, sperm, right whales and "little piked whales" (minke whales). Sightings were plotted in 10 degree squares according to number of whales observed per 1000 hours steamed in daylight. Special attention is given to the observations of Captain W.F.J. Morzer Bruins, who the authors describe as a keen naturalist whose observations hold more credibility than those of others. His observations in the Indian Ocean include a high number of sperm whales off the southern coast of Oman and the Gulf of Aden in January-March and April-June, a scattering of stranded blue and fin whales along the W coast of India, and only 2 stranded and 2 live humpback whales (strandings both in India, and live sightings near Yemen/Oman border? and off S tip of India (near Maldives?). The larger number of compiled sightings from vessels are presented by species. Rorqual sightings were plentiful in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea coasts of Oman and Pakistan, and in the Arabian Gulf (but not as plentiful as they were in the area between 30 and 40 degrees S. The author concludes that the majority of the whales observed in the NIO do not belong to the Southern Hemisphere stock, but suggests that they migrate from the North Pacific through the Indonesian Archipelago and the Strait Malaya (despite very few observations here). He briefly considers, but discards as unlikely, the hypothesis of a resident NIO stock.The total number of humpback whale sightings in the IO amounted to 500 (compared to 1618 rorqual sightings and 799 "whale" sightings). The majority of animals were observed in coastal waters, and NIO sightings were generally concentrated in the months of Aug-Nov and Jan-April. some of the highest recorded densities in the NIO are off of Pakistan in the months of March, Aug, Oct, and December, but it is not clear how closely related this is to observer effort. Observations are very few in May, June, July and September, and the authors do not link this to the monsoon -but rather conclude that the whales are not present at that time. Although few calves were observed in the NIO, those that were observed, were all observed in November, January or September (but no indication is given of calf size). The authors conclude that this is evidence that the observed whales do not belong to the S. Hem stock, but are more likely from the N.Pacific, despite the fact that there are "no sightings of humpbacks in the south China Sea or the Indonesian Archipelago that could support this assumption". Sperm whales were observed with regularity throughout the year in the NIO, but in lower densities than Rorquals. A low number of sightings in the NIO during summer months again leads the author to conclude that the animals either migrate South or to the N. Pacific. This species, according to the authors is always associated with areas of high productivity.Minke whales were recorded in low densities in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Pakistan, but not in the central or Northern coasts of Oman.
Brown,S.G.
Whales observed in the Indian Ocean: notes on their distribution Journal Article
In: The Marine Observer, vol. 27, no. 339, pp. 157-165, 1957.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, Arabian Sea, Australia, baleen whales, Central Indian Ocean, cetacean, density, Distribution, Gulf of Aden, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, India, Indian Ocean, Oman, population, South Africa, Southern Hemisphere, sperm whale, sperm whales, whale, whales
@article{,
title = {Whales observed in the Indian Ocean: notes on their distribution},
author = {Brown,S.G.},
year = {1957},
date = {1957-01-01},
journal = {The Marine Observer},
volume = {27},
number = {339},
pages = {157-165},
abstract = {The paper provides a summary of the results of a questionnaire put to merchant ships and other vessels, 80 of which provided their track data. These vessels apparently had someone on watch during all daylight hours and reported all their cetacean sightings. The authors feel confident that while some sightings could not be identified to species level, a distinction could be drawn between sperm, humpback and "rorqual" whales. The "search effort" and sightings of the ships are plotted in the paper, with the majority of search effort and a high concentration of sightings occurring in the Gulf of Aden and S coast of Oman. Only two humpback whale sightings are recorded for the Northern Arabian sea - one near the horn of Africa/Somalia, and one near Sharbitat/Likbe. An additional string 4 of humpback whale sightings are recorded off the SW coast of India in the region of the Laccadive Islands.The author himself concludes: "There is apparently no great difference in the overall density of the large whale populations per unit area north and south of the equator. The highest concentrations of whales in the Indian Ocean occur in the Gulf of Aden and its approaches, the Arabian Sea and in the zone between South Africa and Australia. The least concentration is found in the Central Indian Ocean. In summer the concentration of baleen whales in the Antarctic is very many times greater than in the Indian Ocean but there is much less difference in winter . The number of sperm whales in the ocean as a whole seems not to outnumber that of the different species of baleen whales combined. Humpback whales and rorquals are found unexpectedly far north, on the supposition that they all belong to the southern hemisphere populations. Rorquals have been observed right across the 30ø to 40ø S. zone between South Africa and Australia where ships might be expected to intercept them occasionally during their migrations."},
keywords = {Antarctic, Arabian Sea, Australia, baleen whales, Central Indian Ocean, cetacean, density, Distribution, Gulf of Aden, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, India, Indian Ocean, Oman, population, South Africa, Southern Hemisphere, sperm whale, sperm whales, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The paper provides a summary of the results of a questionnaire put to merchant ships and other vessels, 80 of which provided their track data. These vessels apparently had someone on watch during all daylight hours and reported all their cetacean sightings. The authors feel confident that while some sightings could not be identified to species level, a distinction could be drawn between sperm, humpback and "rorqual" whales. The "search effort" and sightings of the ships are plotted in the paper, with the majority of search effort and a high concentration of sightings occurring in the Gulf of Aden and S coast of Oman. Only two humpback whale sightings are recorded for the Northern Arabian sea - one near the horn of Africa/Somalia, and one near Sharbitat/Likbe. An additional string 4 of humpback whale sightings are recorded off the SW coast of India in the region of the Laccadive Islands.The author himself concludes: "There is apparently no great difference in the overall density of the large whale populations per unit area north and south of the equator. The highest concentrations of whales in the Indian Ocean occur in the Gulf of Aden and its approaches, the Arabian Sea and in the zone between South Africa and Australia. The least concentration is found in the Central Indian Ocean. In summer the concentration of baleen whales in the Antarctic is very many times greater than in the Indian Ocean but there is much less difference in winter . The number of sperm whales in the ocean as a whole seems not to outnumber that of the different species of baleen whales combined. Humpback whales and rorquals are found unexpectedly far north, on the supposition that they all belong to the southern hemisphere populations. Rorquals have been observed right across the 30ø to 40ø S. zone between South Africa and Australia where ships might be expected to intercept them occasionally during their migrations."